Jensen S-V8
The short-lived, hand-built revival of a British icon with American muscle.
- Power
- 325 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 4.8 s
- Top speed
- 160 mph
- Est. value
- $38k–$55k
About the Jensen S-V8
The Jensen S-V8 was a bold attempt to revive the storied British marque for the 21st century, debuting as a prototype in 1998 before production began in 2001. It features a lightweight aluminium body over a steel chassis, powered by a 32-valve Ford Modular V8 sourced from the Mustang SVT Cobra. The project was plagued by financial difficulties and quality control issues, leading to the company's administration in 2002 with only 20 cars completed. A further 12 cars were later finished by SV Automotive, making this one of the rarest modern British sports cars. It is noted for its distinctive, polarising styling and a raw, analogue driving experience.
Jensen S-V8 specs
The Jensen S-V8 produces 325 bhp (242 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and has a top speed of 160 mph (257 km/h).
| Make | Jensen |
|---|---|
| Model | S-V8 |
| Trim | 4.6 V8 |
| Years | 2001–2005 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 32 built |
| Engine | 4.6-litre Ford Modular DOHC V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,601 cc (4.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 325 bhp (242 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 407 Nm (300 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,800 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 4.8 s |
| Top speed | 160 mph (257 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,300 kg (2,866 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 250 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Jensen S-V8 worth?
A typical Jensen S-V8 is estimated to be worth $38,000 – $55,000 (about £28,000 – £41,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Jensen S-V8 rarity in CarSpot
The Jensen S-V8 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Jensen S-V8 fun facts
- The S-V8's headlights were sourced from the Hyundai Coupe, while the rear lights came from the Ford Mondeo Estate.
- Despite the brand's collapse, the remaining 18 unfinished chassis were sold to SV Automotive, who completed 12 of them to road-going standards by 2005.
- The car was built in a brand-new, high-tech factory in Speke, Liverpool, supported by significant government and local council investment.
